Pharmacologic alternatives in statin-intolerant patients include ezetimibe and nutraceuticals (i.e. compounds derived from foods with cholesterol lowering actions). The investigators will compare the efficacy and tolerability of ezetimibe versus a nutraceutical-based protocol in statin-intolerant patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention.

Background

Treatment with statins has a class I indication after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), but is often discontinued by patients due to side effects.

Pharmacologic alternatives shown to be useful after PCI include ezetimibe and nutraceuticals (i.e. compounds derived from foods with cholesterol lowering actions).

It remains unknown, however, which of these two therapeutic approaches is more effective after PCI.

Purpose

The primary objective of this study is to compare the efficacy and tolerability of ezetimibe versus a nutraceutical-based protocol in statin-intolerant patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Angiographically-proven coronary artery disease
• Recent (< 12 months) percutaneous coronary intervention
• Class I indication to receive statin treatment
• Previous (< 12 months) withdrawn of a statin due to side effects
• Unwilling to receive treatment with an alternative statin
• Able to understand and willing to sign the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women of child bearing potential patients must demonstrate a negative pregnancy test performed within 24 hours before